DoD News

News Article

New AAFES Prices Will Save Service Members Millions

National Guard Bureau

DALLAS, May 7, 1997  Service members will save millions due to the Army and Air Force Exchange Service's new 4 Ways to Save pricing strategy.

"In recent surveys, many customers told us our prices need to be lower," said Air Force Maj. Gen. Doug Bunger, exchange service commander. "This point was driven home by our younger military shoppers, who tell us price most often determines where they shop. Quite simply, in order to earn their loyalty we must lower prices."

The 4 Ways to Save plan includes two major programs: oneHOTprice and Extra Value. Sale items will be clearly marked and are in addition to weekly sales and special buy promotions.

OneHOTprice will feature high-demand merchandise with price savings of at least 25 percent. Most oneHOTprice items will represent 40 percent to 60 percent savings. An example of oneHOTprice savings is a major brand-name pair of men's running shoes at a oneHOTprice of $54.95 (regular price is $97.95) June 1-7. For summer lawn care, the sale from June 29 to July 5 will feature a 3.5 horsepower lawnmower for $77.95, a savings of $20.

Extra Value items will be available in all categories of merchandise. For example, the everyday price on diapers will drop as much as 33 percent, and there's a two-head videotape recorder priced at $99. These are permanent price reductions.

The new pricing program is possible because of effective cost-cutting strategies, improved sales and enhanced revenues in 1996, Bunger said. He described 1996 as an outstanding year with dividends to morale, welfare and recreation programs of $224 million, which amounted to $239 for every soldier and airman -- the highest per capita dividend in AAFES history. (Army, Air Force Exchange Service)